Out & About: Canoe classic moves from river to lake

OUTPADDLE – The annual Spokane River Canoe Classic, normally set on its namesake stream, has been moved to Liberty Lake this year because of the dangerously high river flows.

The June 18 event will begin with registration at 9 a.m. and the race start at 11 a.m. at Liberty Lake County Park. The race will be followed by a free post-race barbecue, said Phil Bridgers of Mountain Gear, which has sponsored the event for more than two decades.

Paddlers in canoe and kayaks will have a choice of paddling one or two loops on a course to be set up on the lake, Bridgers said.

Known for awarding plenty of ribbons in various divisions as well as for lottery prize drawings, the classic is a popular way for families to kick off their Father’s Day weekend.

OUTHOOK – Saturday has been set as Free Fishing Day in Idaho, and Washington will double the pleasure next weekend by dropping the general fishing license requirement for Saturday and Sunday.

While fishing license requirements will be suspended, all other rules, such as limits or tackle restrictions, remain in effect.

Both states are celebrating the day with fishing clinics:

• Fishing 101 for Adults is being offered Saturday by the Washington Fish and Wildlife Department and the Inland Northwest Wildlife Council.

All but a handful of the 40 slots had been filled by last week. Check availability by emailing teamspokane@dfw.wa.gov or calling the WDFW, 892-1001.

• Fishing for novices sessions are being offered at a dozen North Idaho locations where equipment will be available to borrow and fishing experts will be on hand to help novice anglers learn the basics. All sites will be stocked with hatchery rainbow trout prior to the event.

Events are 9 a.m.-noon (unless noted otherwise) at the following locations: